Vulnerable pensioners in the city have concerns over cuts to the winter fuel allowance.

Sheffield Liberal Democrat leader Mohammed says Sheffield residents are becoming increasingly worried about the potential impact of cuts to the winter fuel allowance, with pensioners set to be among those hit the hardest. 

The councillor has vowed to support vulnerable people in the city, should the government proceed with the controversial cuts.

Councillor Mohammed said: “People in Sheffield are very concerned about pensioners losing the winter fuel allowance. It’s been a key topic of discussion on the doorstep since the government announced the changes.”

“75,000 people in Sheffield are going to be adversely affected by this,” he said. “Many of whom will be right on the edge.”

In response, the Sheffield Liberal Democrat branch has joined a wider party campaign demanding the government reconsider its position. Mohammed stressed the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the potential impact on tens of thousands of local residents. 

Councillor Mohammed and his party are urging immediate action to protect vulnerable pensioners, who could face difficult choices as the winter months approach. 

Without the winter fuel allowance, many elderly people may struggle to heat their homes, exacerbating health risks during the colder months.

Another Sheffield resident, Eunice Heathcote, 69, said: “I’m not on a full state pension and have a small private pension, which puts me just above the threshold for pension credit.” 

“I’ve never used the fuel payment for bills—it went towards Christmas presents for my family. While I’ll miss it, I think it should go to those on less than me.” 

The Liberal Democrat campaign, which has gained momentum across the UK, is pushing for the government to rethink the cuts in light of the widespread concern and potential harm to low-income households.

Mohammed added: “If these cuts go ahead, we cannot stand by and watch our elderly residents suffer. We will do everything we can locally to support them through the winter.”

Sheffield Resident, Stephen Stringer, said: “Shaffaq has always worked hard for all the people of Sheffield, not just his ward. He is a councillor with integrity.”

The future of the winter fuel allowance remains uncertain, but local leaders like Councillor Mohammed are determined to ensure that Sheffield’s most vulnerable residents are not left to face the cold alone.

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